IRMO, S.C. – The Center for Advanced Technical Studies (The Center) has been named a 2025 Models of Excellence school by SkillsUSA, the nation’s leading organization for workforce development. This prestigious recognition highlights The Center’s exceptional integration of Personal, Workplace, and Technical Skills into all chapter activities and represents the highest honor bestowed upon SkillsUSA chapters nationwide.
“Every year, our student leaders work incredibly hard to create meaningful experiences that prepare our members for life after high school,” said Joseph Chapman, SkillsUSA advisor at The Center. “Being named a Models of Excellence chapter for the fifth time in six years is a powerful testament to the dedication of our students, staff, and community partners.”
The Models of Excellence program celebrates the intentional teaching of the SkillsUSA Framework, which promotes real-world student development across three key areas: Personal Skills, Workplace Skills, and Technical Skills. In this student-led initiative, members plan and execute all chapter activities while instructors serve as guides—ensuring students practice critical skills like communication, problem solving, and teamwork.
“These students are America’s future skilled workforce and local leaders,” said Chelle Travis, executive director of SkillsUSA. “This honor validates the hard work and impact of these outstanding programs.”
The Center’s SkillsUSA chapter will join 23 other schools from across the country this June at the SkillsUSA National Leadership & Skills Conference (NLSC) in Atlanta, Georgia. Each Models of Excellence school will be interviewed by a panel of judges who will evaluate chapter activities and student leadership. Top chapters in each skill category will be named at the SkillsUSA Awards Session on June 27 at State Farm Arena in front of more than 18,000 attendees.
Representing The Center in the Models of Excellence interviews will be Molly Albert and Alexis Smith. Additionally, over 30 student state champions will compete in their respective trades at NLSC. The chapter will also celebrate a significant milestone as national officer Avery Smith takes the stage during the national event.
This year’s conference promises to be the largest yet, with thousands of industry partners and over four million square feet dedicated to showcasing the skilled trades.
